Little Rylee

I love that we call Riannyn, Anny. I love nicknames. It sets those who know you apart from those who don't. They're sweet, and personal. Liz is short for Elizabeth of course. My Dad says you can make more nicknames out of Elizabeth than any other name. He called me by as many as he could think of. Betty, Liza, Beth, Bethy-sue, Eliza, Liz . . . Those who have known me for a really long time remember my "Lizzy" days. When I told my husband I could recognize friends who have known and loved me for years because they still call me Lizzy, he decided he too should be a part of that group. When he proposed, he said, "Lizzy, will you marry me?".

I wanted a nickname for Merrylee, but couldn't think of one. Thankfully I have a very creative sister (thank's Buggy), who immediately came up with one- Rylee. Like Anny is taken directly from the spelling of Riannyn (RiANNYn), Rylee is at the end of Merrylee (MerRYLEE). We held off calling her that for a little while so we could get used to her beautiful full name. (by the way, it's pronounced like the word "merrily", some of you still seem confused by that. My fault, the spelling is confusing . . .), We also waited because Anny couldn't pronounce her "l's" or "r's". Rylee to her was "Why-wee". Not quite so cute. However our brilliantly advanced eldest daughter can now pronounce her "l's" quite proficiently! So we're taking the leap, and are going to start using Merrylee's sweet nickname, Rylee. Feel free to use it too! Here's some sweet photos of the little darling herself.

He Lives

As I post these sweet Easter photos of my family, I feel it only appropriate to include my testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ, whose resurrection is what we truly celebrate on Easter. I know Jesus Christ lives. He is the son of God, and our spirit brother. He lived a perfect life here on earth. He loved and blessed both those who loved him, and those who hated and betrayed him. He was baptized in the river Jordan. He cleansed the temple. He healed the sick, and even raised the dead. He taught lessons of forgiveness, and service, sacrifice and love. He suffered for the sins of the world in Gethsemane. He died on the cross. However the plans of our Heavenly Father cannot be frustrated. After the third day, the Savior's body and soul were reunited. He left the tomb, and walked, talked, and ate with those he loved. He conquered death, and because of this, we too will be resurrected after death. I love our Savior, and am so grateful for what he sacrificed and did for me. I will always try to follow his perfect example. I know that when I do I and my family are blessed.

My testimony is not complete without mentioning my knowledge of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. I can personally witness that Jesus Christ's church is on the earth again. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is that one true church. It is led by a modern day prophet, who answers to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, and directs this church as they would have it led. Part of this restored gospel is the Book of Mormon. It is a true and wonderful book, filled with further testimony of Jesus Christ. That book has brought me comfort, strength, and direction my entire life. Joseph Smith was God's chosen prophet to restore his church to the earth. Through the power of God Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon from golden plates. He then through the guidance of God organized this church.

I know these things are true not just because they were taught to me by those I love and trust, but because as they were taught to me, my heart felt full, and warm. I knew without a doubt that these things were true. Every bit of joy and happiness I have felt in my life come back to my knowledge of the Savior and his restored gospel. It is my deepest hope that my family I cherish and my friends and neighbors whom I love are blessed with and will live by the knowledge that I have. I end my testimony in the wonderful name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Lovebug

There's just something about a WWII love story that pulls at my emotions. It was the era of innocence, family, big bands, and pretty dresses with matching high heels and lipstick. Then there were those heartbreaking goodbyes as brothers, husbands, and fathers left for the war, knowing full well that goodbye can be the last. This music video captures some of that in a sweet way. I like it. Maybe it's silly of me, but I tear up just a little every time I watch it.